SMU's passing game has been effective in the last three games. That coincides with having a healthy Reggie Roberson Jr. at wide receiver.

Roberson, of Mesquite Horn, has overcome back and ankle problems to take some of the load off wide receiver James Proche, who had become the focus of opposing secondaries.

In the last three games, including two wins, Roberson has 23 catches for 380 yards, four touchdowns and 14 first downs. For the same span, Proche has 21 catches for 255 yards with two touchdowns and 12 first downs.

Roberson, a transfer from West Virginia is the master of the jump-ball, contested reception. He has out-muscled defenders on several of the catches.

"Those plays begin with a mentality of expecting to come down with the ball,'' coach Sonny Dykes said. "There has to be some fearlessness. Reggie came here with that, and he's improved. He coming down with more and more balls.''

In the process, Roberson has become a favorite of quarterback Ben Hicks. In the last three games, Hicks has targeted 43 throws for Roberson and 38 for Proche.

"The quarterback is starting to have confidence in him,'' Dykes said. "He's not afraid to put the ball up because (Roberson) will be in the right spot and fight for it.

"Reggie has a really high ceiling. He has a chance to be a really good one.''

According to Dykes, Roberson had his best practice of the year on Tuesday. That indicates a return to good health for Roberson and the Mustangs' passing game.